Book Review: ‘Joan of Arc: A History’ by Helen Castor

Reading about the past is a fascinating way to discover our roots as well as learn about those who have come before us. In Joan of Arc by Helen Castor we are taken into the world of a young woman who not only changed the course of history but was labeled first an outlaw and then a saint. There are many works about Joan of Arc and if you have an interest in her background you will be amazed at the information gathered in this particular tome.

Castor has done a bit of deconstructing and written a history of the period that takes us not just into the story of Joan of Arc, but of the times, to help show how and why the advent of Joan was so important. Knowing what was happening and how it all came about brings the fiery and committed Maid or Orleans into stark relief.

A young woman self-proclaimed to be chosen by God to lead the French to freedom, she was stalwart and brave in a way that defied the stereotype of women of the time. The fact that a king and his army would follow that advice of a girl, for that is what she was, young and maidenly, is a testament to her passionate belief that she was guided by God.

Castor is able to take us into the life of a young peasant girl who hears the voice of God, and leads the French army to victory. Burned at the stake for heresy, she was later validated through those who kept the faith and knew of her victories and believed her story, as she finally became a saint.

If you enjoy history and have even a passing interest in Joan of Arc, you will find this an amazing read. This is a true story from the histories and journals of the times that reads like fiction. You learn of the girl and her life as well as her passionate belief in God. This is truly one of the best histories I have encountered. Her years were short yet her battles were epic, and through her faith she accomplished what others could not: to drive the English from France and reset the French king on the throne.

This would be a great book for a reading club; the discussion surrounding the material would be abundant.

Check Also

'Regarding the Case of Joan of Arc' works out to be a metaphor for the current radicalization of Republican Christians in the USA, especially their hardcore faction and those advocating the use of violence to restore their alleged supremacy.